Cf: The butcher looked for his knife and it was (while he had it) in his mouth (Br.). If it had been a bear (a dog, a snake), it would have bitten you (Am.). If it were a bear, it would bite you (Am., Br.). People don't see things on their own doorsteps (Am.)
Русско-английский словарь пословиц и поговорок. Академик.ру. 2013.